What is Aromatherapy?

i) Aromatherapy oils, and how they are used
Aromatherapy is the use of organic essences of aromatic plants for healing and the maintenance of vitality.
The essences, or `essential oils' as they are commonly known, are extracted from a wide variety of plants, and are very concentrated. For example it takes the petals from about 30 specially cultivated roses to produce one drop of Rose essential oil and several kilos of lavender to produce a small bottle of essential oil.

Each oil has its own unique healing properties and fragrance. One essential oil may contain over one hundred different chemical constituents. These oils in their natural state have been found to possess a powerful `synergy' i.e. the therapeutic quality of the unadulterated natural oil is more effective than a synthetic, partially reconstituted equivalent.

The essences are volatile and will evaporate without trace if left open to the air. They do not dissolve in water.
Several oils are often used in combination to promote healing on different levels - physical, mental and emotional.
There are several ways of using the oils, all of them very pleasant: massage, bathing, compress, inhalation (never use them orally).

They work by the absorption of minute quantities of the oil through the skin, and also through inhalation of the aroma.

ii) History and development of Aromatherapy
Smell has always been one of the most powerful and perhaps one of the most instinctual of all our senses. It must have guided our earliest ancestors in their choice of foods and medicinal herbs. Burning different woods on their fires they could have experienced the stimulating effect of Rosemary, and the restoring effect of Sage.

Knowledge of how to make use of the beneficial effects of aromatic plants developed gradually. By 3500BC, the priestesses of the Egyptian temples were burning gums and resins, such as Frankincense, to clear the mind. The Romans used essential oils for massage, and aromatic herbs within the home.

In 17th century England, pomanders made of Oranges and Cloves were used to ward off the Black Death. Great herbalists such as Culpepper used essential oils such as Peppermint and Rosemary as an integral part of their medicine. The 19th and 20th centuries saw the development of chemistry and the creation of synthetic drugs. Their widespread use overshadowed the use of more traditional remedies.

Interestingly it was a chemist, the Frenchman Rene Gatefosse, who in 1937 coined the word 'Aromatherapy'. He was working in the labouratory of a perfumery when he badly burnt his hand. He plunged it into the nearest bowl of liquid. It happened to be essential oil of Lavender. The hand healed with exceptional speed and virtually no scarring. As a chemist, Gatefosse realised that the healing and antiseptic qualities of this pure essential oil of Lavender were manifestly much greater than any of the synthetic equivalents available to him.

He subsequently researched into the healing properties of other essential oils. Another Frenchman, Dr Valnet, added to this research whilst working as a medical surgeon in the Second World War. Medical supplies were short, and the essential oils proved to be a very effective alternative in many cases. The work of Rene Gatefosse, Dr Valnet and several other eminent researchers helped in the scientific validation of Aromatherapy.

Since the war Aromatherapy has continued to develop in different ways in different countries. In France there are over 1500 medical doctors who have trained in Aromatherapy. In the UK its growth has been part of the 'complementary medicine' movement. Today it is used by thousands of people from all walks of life, including Royalty.

iii) Aromatherapy in the UK
Aromatherapy as it has developed in the UK, is based on an holistic approach, which seeks to encourage health on all levels.
For example if a woman has arthritis, Rosemary, Juniper or Chamomile might be considered to help the physical aspects of the condition. Her feelings would also be taken into account. Is she suffering from resentment, or anger about her condition? If this was the case, different oils would be chosen to help with these psychological aspects of her state of health. The chosen oils would act as a catalyst to promote healing on all levels.

Another important part of the holistic approach is the encouragement it gives for people to help themselves and take responsibility for creating their own health. Home use of Aromatherapy is a very practical way of doing this.

iv) Aromatherapy - an aid to stress management and vitality
Proper use of the oils helps promote a more balanced lifestyle. There is less likelihood of succumbing to everyday illness and the effects of stress.

A balanced state of mind promotes vitality and better ability to cope with potentially difficult events, such as a boardroom meeting or a visit to the dentist.
Use of Aromatherapy can also stimulate the immune system, avoiding the 'run-down' feeling that can often lead to colds or flu.

How essential oils are obtained

i) Sources of essential oils
Essential oils are obtained mainly by distillation, and a few by solvent extraction. Other methods such as expression have been used, but are generally too labour intensive to be cost effective. The essential oils are obtained from different parts of the aromatic plant:­

ii) Distillation
Large vats are filled with the selected part of the plant which is processed by steam distillation. The essential oil is separated from the cooled condensed water producing, for example, Lavender essential oil and Lavender water.
Some plants may produce several oils as different sections of the plant are processed, e.g. the Orange tree gives: -

iii) Solvent extraction
Solvent extraction is used for fragile flowers such as jasmine, where the heat and pressure used in distillation would destroy the essential oil. The flowers are placed in layers of wax and solvent to macerate and are renewed daily. Subsequently, they are put through a centrifuge and distilled at very low temperatures.

This process can take up to 20 days to complete, and oils obtained in this manner are understandably expensive.

The result of this process is called an absolute. Essential oil of Rose is also produced by this process as well as by distillation.

Purchase and storage of essential oils and base oils

i) Purchase of essential oils
In order to benefit from the healing properties of the oils, it is vital to purchase them from a reputable supplier who takes care to ensure high standards. Before accepting a batch, a sample will have been tested, using gas chromatography, to see whether the characteristic 'signature' of the pure essential oil is evident. The word 'natural' on a bottle's label does not always guarantee purity. It is sensible to check that the description states 'pure essential oil'.

Buy the oils in small quantities as you need them, replacing them as required.

ii) Storage - how to care for the essential oils
Keep the essential oils in dark glass bottles in which they are supplied.
Blends may be kept in similar bottles, (12-20mls is a good size).
These may be obtained from a chemist for a reasonable cost.
Plastic containers are not suitable for storage. The oils are very powerful and will damage them.
Make sure the top of the bottle is always securely shut, as the essential oils are very volatile.
Store them in a cool environment away from direct light. Always ensure that they are out of reach of inquisitive children.

iii) Storage - how long will they last?
Most essential oils will keep for up to two years.
In particular Citrus oils such as Orange and Grapefruit may only be effectively used for up to six months.
Then they will go cloudy through oxidation. On the other hand there are a few essential oils which improve with age, rather like some good wines.
These are often the oils which originate from plants which have taken a long time to mature, e.g. Sandalwood and Frankincense. There is even a market for vintage Frankincense!
Blended oils remain effective for up to three months if stored in a cool place such as a refrigerator.

iv) Purchase of base oils
It is important that high quality base oils be chosen with the essential oils.
Extra virgin cold pressed oils should be used.
These come from the first pressing.
Later extractions use heat or solvent processes which destroy the trace minerals and vitamins found in the oils. Similarly avoid mineral and baby oils.

Sweet almond is apopular and excellent choice for a base oil.

Almond oil diluted with 10% of Avocado or Wheatgerm.(unless the user is allergic to wheat is good for people with particularly dry skin.

Other carrier oils include Grapeseed, Apricot Kernel, Peach Kernel, Olive, Soya, Sunflower Seed and Sesame Seed. Jojoba, which is a wax, may also be included in a blend.

General cautions, children and special cases

NEVER USE NEAT ESSENTIAL OILS DIRECTLY ON TO THE SKIN. NEVER USE THEM INTERNALLY.

i) Babies, infants and children
Babies and infants should only be treated with the oils recommended in the paragraph immediately below. They, and to a lesser extent children, require much smaller amounts of the oils than adults to obtain effective results. Use these oils as indicated in the reference section.
Babies 0-12 months One drop of Lavender or Roman Chamomile
a) compress
b) room fragrancer
c) dilute one drop in 15ml of Sweet Almond oil for i) massage

ii) bathing
Infants 1-6 years One-three drops of Tea Tree, Lavender or Roman
Chamomile used as above.
Children 7-12 years Use as for adults but half the number of drops of essential
oils.
Children 12+ years Use as directed for adults.

ii) Pregnancy
USE THE ESSENTIAL OILS IN HALF THE STATED AMOUNT AT THIS SPECIAL TIME.
Stimulating essential oils and those which have an emmenagogic effect, i.e. help bring on periods, should not be used during pregnancy.

Basil, Clove, Cinnamon, Hyssop, Juniper, Marjoram, Myrrh, Sage and Thyme, should not be used during the nine months of pregnancy.

Fennel, Peppermint, and Rosemary should be avoided during the first 4 months of pregnancy, because of their stimulating effect, but are acceptable after this period.

iii) Eyes
Keep essential oils away from the eyes. Should an accident occur, wash the eyes with
plenty of water and seek medical advice.

iv) Homoeopathic treatment
If receiving Homoeopathic treatment, consult your homoeopath, and avoid the following essential oils: Black Pepper, Camphor, Eucalyptus and Peppermint. They may nullify the Homoeopathic preparations.

v) Sensitivity and allergies

a) Allergic reactions
People with allergies, including allergies to perfume, may well be helped by professional Aromatherapy. The aromatherapist will recommend the essential oils for home use.

b) Sensitivity
Occasionally a person's skin may be sensitive to a particular oil (usually the more stimulating ones), causing irritation. It will generally disappear within the hour. Plain Sweet Almond Oil, smoothed on the affected part, will help the irritation to subside.

Sometimes women find skin sensitivity increases just before their period, or at ovulation. This is due to hormonal changes in the body.

If sensitivity occurs, refrain from using the particular oil for 10 days. Then, if you wish to use it again, dilute to one quarter of the original amount, and test on a small area of the skin.

If no reaction occurs, you can continue to use the oil in the diluted amount.
Certain oils are best administered by a qualified Aromatherapist: Cinnamon, Clove, Hyssop and Sage.

Methods of using the essential oils

i) Massage
Massage has been found to be the most effective way of using the essential oils.
For the purposes of massage, the oils are blended in a base oil (see instructions on blending).
Massage of the hands and feet is an excellent way to keep in good health. All the reflex or zone points for the body are stimulated by this method. This helps balance the body's energy flow.

Before considering home massage, it is recommended that you take a basic course. There are many good introductory massage courses available. Find a course with a qualified teacher who is also an experienced practitioner.

ii) Bathing
Bathing is the next most effective way of using the oils. There are two alternative ways of proceeding:
diffusing up to 5 drops of essential oils
OR
diffusing up to 5ml of a blend.
This method is good if you have sensitive or dry skin, or wish to preserve a suntan.

PROCEDURE
a) Run a bath of warm water (not hot or the oils will evaporate too quickly).
b) Add up to 5 drops of either essential oil or 5ml of the blend. c) Agitate the water.
d) Relax for 10-15 minutes minimum.
e) Avoid splashing in the eyes.

It is safe to use the bathing method everyday. The warm water assists the absorption of the oils. You may not be aware of the effects immediately, perhaps not until the next morning after the sound sleep which such baths often promote.

As you notice changes in your condition, you may wish to vary the oils according to the new indications. The body will benefit from the different properties of the essential oils.
If your condition doesn't begin to change after a reasonable amount of time, it is wise to consult a qualified Aromatherapist in conjunction with medical attention if necessary.

iii) Inhalation
Inhalation is very useful for relieving congestion, easing catarrh and soothing the respiratory tract.
The age old method of covering the head with a towel and inhaling the vapour from Eucalyptus and Camphor still holds good today.

PROCEDURE
a) Boil 2 pints of water and pour into a bowl.
b) Add 10 drops of an essential oil or a combination of essential oils. c) Agitate the water.
d) Put a towel over the head. Close the eyes and inhale the vapours for a few minutes at a time, for up to 10 minutes or as long as is comfortable. Repeat several times a day if required.
A facial steamer may be used instead of a bowl with 3-5 drops of essential oils.

iv) Compresses
Follow first aid instructions for the use of compresses and disperse 1-2 drops of essential oil into the water.
The material should be gently laid on the surface of the water to attract the film of essential oil.
The compress can then be placed on the affected area in the normal way.

v) Scalp treatments
A range of scalp conditions, including dandruff, respond well to the use of an essential oil blend.
This method can also be used to assist in clearing lice from the scalp and has the advantage of being pleasant to use.

PROCEDURE
a) Ensure that the eyes are well protected.
b) Prepare the chosen blend (proportionally less for children) and massage into the scalp.
c) Leave the mixture on the head for half an hour to two hours.
A plastic cap will help absorption. Always supervise children as they may pull a loose fitting cap down over their face. Bathtime is a good time for a scalp treatment as heat aids absorption.
d) To remove the blend: massage in neat shampoo initially, then add water and shampoo in the normal way.

vi) Room fragrancers
There are several ways of using essential oils to produce a wonderful fragrant atmosphere in a room.

a) Essential oil burners
Essential oil burners are obtainable in many health food shops and from some suppliers of the oils.
A small reservoir at the top of the burner is filled with water. This is heated by the flame from a nightlight placed inside the burner. Up to 5 drops of neat essential oil may be sprinkled on the water. This gradually evaporates, filling the room with the aroma. For example Lavender produces a relaxing atmosphere which can help with insomnia. Rosewood is soothing for tired, grumpy children who don't want to go to bed.

During illness, the use of a room fragrancer can help to protect the health of the rest of the family. The 'aroma' inhibits infection by airborne bacteria such as cold and flu viruses. This has been put to good test in several hospitals and clinics. This method can also ease breathing in many chest conditions and may help asthmatics reduce their need for inhalants,

b) Light fittings
Put a few drops of neat essential oil on a cold light bulb or use a special attachment for the bulb. The fragrance will gradually permeate the room as the warmth of the bulb vaporises the essential oil.

c) Humidifiers
A saucer of water with a few drops of neat essential oil placed on top of a radiator will act as a vaporiser and humidifier at the same time.

vii) Handkerchief or tissue
Put one or two drops of neat oil onto a handkerchief or tissue and inhale when required. This method is useful for travelling and when other methods are not convenient.
viii) Perfumes
Make up a blend as directed and use as you would a perfume. Frankincense and/or Sandalwood make excellent fixatives for your blend.

How to use the reference guide with examples

Choosing the right essential oils from the physical index is quite straightforward.
Choosing from the psychological index is more of an adventure. When exploring the new 'territory' of physical and psychological balance it helps to have the open­mindedness of 'Alice in Wonderland'. The journey can be very exciting.

i) Guidelines
1. Using the Physical Reference Index is a good way to become familiar with the use of essential oils. This index can be used on its own, see Example I, or in conjunction with the Psychological Reference Index, see Example Il. 2. Each person's condition is unique. He/she needs to find out which oils and blends work best for them.

3. The oils are powerful catalysts. Respect the indicated maximum amounts.

4. You may wish to use less than the indicated amounts. A more dilute blend can sometimes be just as effective.

5. Use the oils to gently stimulate the body's natural healing ability.

6. The oils may sometimes work a little slower than conventional remedies. It takes several hours for them to be absorbed into the body's system.

7. Use the Essential Oils Guide frequently to become familiar with the unique properties of each oil.

8. The oils are non-addictive and non-toxic.

9. If conditions persist beyond a reasonable time, it is wise to visit a qualified Aromatherapist. A well trained Aromatherapist can liaise with the medical profession if necessary.

ii) Guide to the Reference Section
The reference index is divided into three sections:

a) guide to the essential oils.
It gives a brief introduction to the properties of each oil, and a 'keyword' which describes its overall character. The physical and psychological conditions for each oil are listed under each oil and cross-referenced with the other two indexes. At the bottom of each individual oil's section are symbols describing the cautions for its use.

b) index of the physical conditions, the indicated oils, and symbols for suggested methods of use.

c) psychological conditions, the indicated oils, and symbols for suggested methods of use. The reference guide also contains examples:­
Example I - Using the Physical Reference Index
Example II - Using both the Physical and Psychological Reference Indexes
Example III - Making up a blend
Example IV - Achieving a balanced blend
Immediately preceding the reference sections is a key to the symbols used in them.

iii) Example 1: Using the Physical Reference Index

A woman has bad circulation.

PROCEDURE
1. Check the cautions section.
2. Refer to the Physical Reference Index for 'bad circulation'. Rosemary - BM is given.
3. Consult the symbols key to find B - bathing and M - massage.
4. Choose the method of using the oils. Bathing with diffused oils might be the choice in this case.
5. Follow the procedure for bathing using up to 5 drops of diffused essential oil.

iv) Example II: Using both the Physical and Psychological Reference Indexes
A man has sprained his ankle playing his favourite sport.

PROCEDURE
1. Follow normal first aid procedures. Assess the seriousness of the injury. If necessary go to the doctor or the casualty department of the hospital. If home first aid is applicable: -
2. Check the general cautions section. If no cautions apply: -
3. Look in the Physical Reference Index - Lavender and Chamomile oils are indicated. C for compress is indicated as the advised method of use.
4. Later in the day the man may wish to have a bath with a combination of Chamomile and Lavender. See bathing instructions in the methods section. 5. Consider the psychological factors. Talking with a friend or parther can help highlight the reasons for the injury and any possible psychological factors such as:
Was he feeling impatient?
Did he forget to warm up? Is this a bad habit?
6. Looking in the Psychological Index he will find that for 'Impatience' Lavender is indicated (in this case it is recommended for both physical and psychological aspects of the condition). For the release of old habit patterns Rose is indicated. BMR are given as possible methods of use. He chooses B for bathing.

v) Making up a blend
To make up a blend use up to 4 different oils in the base oil of your choice.

PROCEDURE

a) Dilution
1. Ascertain the volume of the bottle in millilitres. Often it is written on the bottle.
2. Divide the number of millilitres by two. The answer gives the number of drops of essential oil you need to add to the base oil. This achieves the recommended ratio of 2.5% essential oil to 97.5% base oil.
If you want to make up a 12ml bottle of the blend you will therefore need to add up to 6 drops of essential oil to the base.
If you want to make up a 20ml bottle of blend you will need to add up to 10 drops of essential oil to the base.

b) Achieving a balanced blend
Fragrance is a subjective experience. It's important for the person who is using the blend to find the aroma balance that instinctively seems right for him or her.
The fragrance of certain oils is particularly strong. These oils need to be used in smaller amounts so that they do not dominate the blend. Examples are Camphor, Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Tea Tree. The fragrance of other
oils such as jasmine, Rose and Neroli, though not so obviously strong, are very pervasive and could also dominate a blend.
One drop of the above oils is all that is usually needed in a blend,

vi) Example III - Making up a blend
A woman has a tension headache. She is anxious and worrying about the future _beecause her husband is likely to be made redundant.

PROCEDURE for choice of oils
1. Check the caution section.
2. Look in the Physical Reference Index: Lavender is indicated for the headache (tension).
3. Look in the Psychological Reference Index: Bergamot is indicated for anxiety. Sandalwood is indicated for worry about the future.
Because her skin is dry she has chosen the method of using a blend in the bath, with Sweet Almond oil as the base.

PROCEDURE for blending
a) Fill a clean 12ml bottle with Almond oil.
b) Calculate the maximum amount of essential oils to be added, i e. 12m] divided by 2 - 6 drops of essential oil.
c) Check the intensity of each oil's aroma by smelling it. In this case they are of similar intensity so add 2 drops of each to the base oil.
d) Replace the top and gently shake the bottle to mix the blend.
e) Follow instructions on bathing using a blend.
f) Store the rest of the blend in a cool place or the fridge (but not the freezer!) for future use.
The blend may be kept for up to three months.

vii) Example IV - Achieving a balanced blend
A recently bereaved woman with arthritis wishes to massage her hands.

PROCEDURE
1. Follow steps one to three above.
In the Physical Reference Index: Juniper is indicated (for swelling), Lavender is indicated (for pain).
In the Psychological Index: Rose is indicated (for grief).
2. She wants to make up a 20m1 blend. Twenty millilitres divided by two = 10 drops of essential oil - the maximum number of drops to be added to the blend. 3. She adds one drop of Rose (one of the heady oils).
4. She adds three drops of juniper (it smells stronger to her than Lavender).
5. She adds four drops of Lavender. These 8 drops may be sufficient to produce the pleasing aroma of a balanced blend.
6. She may however, add further drops of either Rose, Juniper or Lavender, up to the maximum of 10 drops total, if this would make the blend more agreeable.
Keeping a notebook of the blends you make and the results they give will help you to build on your growing experience.